Retreat - or Advance?

Free For All: Christmas 2008 Issue

Does the thought of a weekend of peace and tranquillity, gently letting go of the cares and worries of everyday life, appeal to you? Well, it certainly appealed to a group of parishioners last September as we set off for our annual retreat to Hemingford Grey, Cambridgeshire.

We all came with our own agendas and different needs - for some a chance to find time to listen to God away from the distractions of our noisy, busy work or family life. For others a time for prayer, reflection or study, and for some a chance simply to recharge the batteries and wonder at God's creation in the beautiful grounds and surrounding countryside.

For the most part, the weekend was conducted in silence. A surprisingly easy state to enter into and a more difficult one to come out of! The theme for this year was 'Hymns, the glorious heritage of the Church' and our Retreat conductor, the Revd Neil Evans, opened our eyes afresh to the beautiful poetry and imagery behind some of the well known hymns we sing in church but rarely take time to reflect deeply upon. Singing hymns will never be quite the same again. Retreat? More of an advance, I'd say!

Retreats are normally held annually, generally each September. If you are interested and would like to obtain further information please contact Jane Coan - 020 8868 0435.